Fisheries Agency,Ministry of Agriculture

Issued Date: July 14, 2025

　　In response to the CNN report released on July 12 titled "Taiwan is held up as a bastion of liberal values. But migrant workers report abuse, injury and death in its fishing industry," the Fisheries Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture issues the following statement to clarify and reaffirm Taiwan’s unwavering commitment to protecting human rights in the distant-water fishing industry.

　　As a nation founded on the principles of freedom, democracy, and human rights, Taiwan upholds a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of labor exploitation. We fully recognize the challenging nature of distant-water fishing operations and the complexities involving in labor conditions at sea. Taiwan remains committed to implementing systemic reforms aimed at enhancing the working and living conditions of migrant fishers.

　　In 2022, Taiwan launched “the Action Plan for Fisheries and Human Rights”, becoming one of the few Asian countries to adopt a cross-ministerial approach to protecting the rights and benefits of migrant fishers in the distant-water fishing sector.

　　The cases cited in the CNN report are deeply regrettable. The Fisheries Agency expresses serious concern for those involved and offers the following statements:

1. Silwanus’ Injury:

　　The incident occurred while the vessel was operating in the Pacific Ocean. After the captain acknowledged the situation, he provided first aid and continuously administered anti-inflammatory and pain relief medication. Silwanus was arranged to rest and recover while his condition was monitored and dressings changed regularly. The incident was reported to the Fisheries Agency in accordance with standard offshore medical protocols. An onshore medical assessment determined that there was no immediate threat to life. The captain followed medical guidance and arranged for another vessel to assist in transporting Silwanus back to Taiwan. Upon arrival, the fisher was taken to a hospital for examination. Unfortunately, the injury did not meet the insurance company's criteria for disability compensation. The Fisheries Agency is further investigating the matters, including the circumstances surrounding contract termination, and will assist the migrant fisher in receiving fair treatment.

2. The Death of a migrant fisher reported by Adrian:

　　Adrian was employed aboard “Longbow No.7”, a Vanuatu-flagged vessel invested by Taiwanese nationals. Adrian filed a complaint with assistance provided by Stella Maris and through the Happy Fisherman platform[1], concerning wage deductions and the handling of a migrant fisher’s death improperly. Upon receiving the complaint, the Fisheries Agency notified the flag state and contacted the investor. Upon investigation, wages were paid in accordance with the contract. According to the maritime report of the aforementioned fishing vessel, upon discovering the death of a migrant fisher, the captain immediately provided comfort to other fishers and subsequently, notified both the flag state and the deceased migrant fisher’s family. The recruitment agent and the local agent in Fiji coordinated efforts to handle the insurance claim, apply for port entry clearance, and arrange for the repatriation of the deceased. A local medical institution in Fiji confirmed that the cause of death was an acute pulmonary edema. The deceased was subsequently returned to Indonesia and received by the family, with the recruitment agent assisting in the application for death insurance compensation.

　　The Fisheries Agency strictly enforces the requirement for prompt reporting of all injuries and deaths onboard Taiwan flagged fishing vessels. In all such cases, the Agency coordinates with the Coast Guard and the prosecutor offices to investigate the cause of death and ensure proper treatment.

3. Wage Arrears onboard Vessel “Yu Fu”:

　　During a labor inspection and crew interview on July 22, 2024, the Fisheries Agency discovered that several migrant fishers had not yet received their wages. The Agency intervened immediately, coordinating with the employer, recruitment agent, and related associations to expedite wage repayment. The matter was also referred to judicial authorities for investigation of possible criminal conduct. The migrant fisher received full back wages on August 8, 2024.

　　The Fisheries Agency emphasizes that in response to the reported incidents, it has taken proactive actions and continues to enhance preventive mechanisms to avoid aforementioned incidents. By 2025, Taiwan has approximately 940 distant-water fishing vessels. The vast majority of vessel operators and captains operate legally, respect the rights and benefits of migrant fishers, and prioritize safety at sea. While such cases are isolated, they shall not be exaggerated as common phenomenon of the entire industry. The Fisheries Agency reaffirmed its commitment to its best efforts to properly address the labor-related issues in the fisheries sector.

　　Since 2020, when the U.S. Department of Labor revealed risks of forced labor in global fisheries, Taiwan has proactively taken actions. The government has worked closely with industry stakeholders, civil society organizations, and international partners to implement “the Action Plan for Fisheries and Human Rights”[２], further safeguarding the welfare of migrant fishers.

　　Taiwanese Government recognizes the international community’s concern regarding labor rights and stands ready to provide additional information and the progress of developing regulations and measures. The Fisheries Agency welcome visits by international media, organizations, and independent observers to conduct on-site inspections and objectively assess Taiwan’s continued efforts to improve human rights conditions in the fishing industry.